1. They Steal Your Stuff (On Purpose!)
One not-so-obvious sign your pet wants more playtime is when they steal your belongings—especially things like socks, shoes, or even your phone! To them, it’s a game of “chase me if you can.” If your dog or cat suddenly has a hobby of snatching your stuff and running off with it, they’re probably looking for a bit of fun and attention.
2. Zoomies at Odd Times
The infamous zoomies—those random bursts of energy when your pet runs wild around the house—are a surefire clue that they have pent-up energy and need more playtime. If your dog is racing laps around the living room or your cat bounces off the walls at odd hours, it’s time to break out the toys and give them an outlet for all that extra energy.
3. They’re Extra Vocal
Does your dog start barking more, or does your cat meow insistently out of nowhere? Sometimes, vocalizing is their way of saying, “Hey, I’m bored! Let’s do something fun.” If they’re normally quiet but suddenly chatting up a storm, it could be their way of asking for more playtime and engagement.
4. They Pester You While You’re Busy
Does your pet seem to bother you only when you’re trying to get something done? Maybe your cat sits on your keyboard, or your dog keeps nudging your arm while you work. This is their subtle (or not-so-subtle) way of demanding attention and playtime. They’re saying, “I’m here, and I’m bored. Let’s fix that!”
5. They Drop Toys at Your Feet
What is the most classic sign your pet wants to play? They bring you their favorite toy. If your dog keeps dropping a ball in your lap or your cat pushes a toy mouse toward you, they signal it’s time for some fun. Ignoring this plea for playtime might lead to other, more naughty attention-seeking behaviors!
6. They Get Into Mischief
If your dog starts digging up the yard or your cat suddenly knocks over everything on your bookshelf, it could be their way of entertaining themselves because they’re not getting enough playtime with you. Bored pets often create their version of fun—though it might not always align with what you’d consider “fun.”
7. Restless Pacing or Fidgeting
A pet pacing around the house or can’t seem to settle down often needs more physical or mental stimulation. Restlessness is their way of saying, “I’ve got too much energy, and I don’t know what to do with it!” A quick game of fetch or a round of laser-pointer tag might be just what they need to burn off that energy.
8. They Follow You Everywhere
It’s normal for pets to want to be near you, but if your dog or cat is following you from room to room like your shadow, they might be craving some quality playtime. They’re not just being clingy—they’re trying to get you to engage with them more actively.
9. They Stare You Down
Ever catch your dog or cat just staring at you? This intense look is often a sign they want something and that something could very well be playtime. If they give you those puppy-dog eyes or cat stare of doom, they’re likely hoping you’ll pick up on their silent plea for a bit of action.
10. Destructive Chewing or Scratching
If your pet starts chewing on furniture or scratching where they shouldn’t, it’s often a sign of boredom or a lack of play. Dogs, in particular, may chew on things to relieve stress or excess energy, while cats might scratch in frustration if they’re not getting enough stimulation. More play can help redirect these destructive tendencies.
11. Their Tail Is Wagging or Flicking (But Not Calmly)
A wagging dog tail or a flicking cat tail usually means excitement. But if your pet’s tail is extra animated—fast wags or flicks—it could be a sign they’re feeling restless and need to burn off some energy. It’s their way of showing you they’re ready to move and play.
12. They Seem to Daydream or Stare Out Windows
If your pet stares out the window longingly, they might crave more stimulation. It’s a sign that they seek excitement or something to engage their curiosity. A more interactive playtime can help fulfill that need for the adventure they’re dreaming about.
13. They Start Digging or Burrowing Indoors
If your dog is digging at blankets or your cat is burrowing under cushions, it might be their way of trying to entertain themselves. This behavior can be a sign they’re bored and looking for some kind of activity. Engaging them with some play can help redirect that energy into something more fun (and less destructive!).
14. They Start “Hunting” You
Ever notice your cat stalking you from behind a corner or your dog crouching playfully as if getting ready to pounce? This playful “hunting” behavior is a sign they want to engage in some fun! When your pet treats you like prey in a playful way, they’re telling you they’re in the mood for a game of chase or tug-of-war.
15. They Get the “Wiggles”
If your dog starts wiggling their whole body in excitement or your cat gets a case of the “butt wiggles” before pouncing, they’re brimming with playful energy. This kind of full-body excitement is their way of showing they’re ready for action, so get ready to play!
